The Christian Martyr
Datec. 1855
Artist
Paul Delaroche
(French, 1797–1856)
MediumOil on canvas
Dimensions21 x 18 in. (53.3 x 45.7 cm)
frame: 34 1/2 × 32 in. (87.6 × 81.3 cm)
frame: 34 1/2 × 32 in. (87.6 × 81.3 cm)
Credit LineSamuel and Mary R. Bancroft Memorial, 1935
Object number1935-6
On View
Not on viewClassificationsPAINTING
Label TextIn a rare collecting foray into French art, Samuel Bancroft purchased this replica of a famous subject by the Salon painter, Delacroix. The scene depicts one of the many Christians who were martyred – in this case by drowning -- during the reign of the Roman emperor Diocletian. Contemporary art historians have linked this subject to 19th century portrayals of death scenes, such as that of Ophelia which was addressed by the Pre-Raphaelite painters.
